While the divorce process is governed by law, each divorce will have unique aspects because each couple is unique. One aspect of a divorce that can set a couple apart and require special considerations can be the ages of the spouses and the number of years they have been married. There are aspects of gray divorce, a term used to describe divorces involving those older than 50, of which Pennsylvania couples should be aware.
Aspects of divorce to consider for older Pennsylvania couples
We can help with smooth navigation of adoption process
Adoption is a highly personal and emotional journey for families under any circumstances. When the adoption process involves same sex couples or step-parent adoptions, the adoption process should be as smooth as possible for everyone involved. Nevertheless, Pennsylvania parents and soon-to-be parents may find the process anything but smooth, necessitating the help of legal representatives.
Divorce will affect future finances and retirement
Divorce leads to changes in all aspects of a person's life, including where a person lives and what the financial future may look like. Aside from an initial divorce settlement, including any alimony payable, Pennsylvania residents may want to think about the long term financial impact of a split, namely retirement. Regardless of how close or far a couple may be to retirement age, the divorce will usually affect any accounts already in place.
Judge allows unusual means of filing for divorce
The divorce process can vary from couple to couple. But, it mostly entails the same step of one partner first filing for divorce, and the other person being served with papers. It was only a matter of time before the old paper filing of divorce system was outdone by technology. Pennsylvania couples may want to be aware that a judge in a neighboring state has approved a new way to file for divorce, at least under the specific circumstances presented to the court.
Divorce can factor into a Pennsylvania couple's benefits
For many, Social Security benefits are a much needed source of support as they age. When a divorce is in the works, a Pennsylvania resident may not be fully aware of how that divorce can impact Social Security benefits for a partner who may have not earned enough to qualify for benefits or may have earned less than a former spouse. The length of a marriage is the key to determining whether a person is entitled to Social Security benefits based on the earnings of an ex-spouse.
